
However, if you have used it before, feel you really need it, have discussed it with your doctor, and are on a long haul flight, Ambien or Stilnox can be a great option (although if you are someone who is already at risk of DVT, this could heighten your chances, as you will inevitably move around less if you are fast asleep). If you are on a short-haul flight then this one is a no go, as it may leave you groggy for hours afterwards. “I’ve heard many stories of people cleaning the house, internet shopping etc.

But swallow with care according to Stephen, “Ambien is a sleeping tablet that has been associated with abnormal behaviours such as sleepwalking and amnesia - so would be risky using it for the first time on a plane.” Ambien (strong prescription drug)Īmbien (Stilnox, if you’re in Australia) is one of the most effective ways to knock yourself out. There are a number of medical concerns one should understand, however, before smugly heading down the pharmacy, which is why we got in touch with Stephen Massey, a GP from Bondi Doctors.Īccording to Stephen, sleepless travellers have four different options when it comes to getting some big Z’s on the plane. Factor in the extortionate business class prices and it’s easy to see why so many people resort to sleeping tablets (roughly $15 a pill, for the strong kind), rather than paying $1,000 to $2,000 extra for a lie-flat seat.

Around one in three people have at least mild insomnia - a condition made worse by unusual circumstances like being launched 30,000ft into the stratosphere.
